“Cicada” is the story of a cicada who is portrayed as being “almost” human.  He works, sitting in his cubicle,  day in and day out, where it is obvious that he is greatly underappreciated. One day , after “17”  years of work, Cicada has had enough and  retires! “No party, no handshake. Boss say clean desk, Tok, Tok, Tok.” Cicada proceeds to climb to the top of a a tall building.  “Time to say Good-bye,” says Cicada.  Cicada’s  outer “shell/body” then  begins to crack open and a beautiful, red flying insect is seen flying off to join  others –  just like him!

Cicada is a very clever story written for older picture book readers.  The illustration of Cicada standing, ready to leap off a very tall building may be a bit “concerning” to some in that it might  hint at  suicide.   Does the author/illustrator want the reader to think  Cicada IS contemplating  suicide, one might ask.  This fact might dissuade librarians and teachers from purchasing “Circada.”

The ending is a true surprise – unless you are up on Cicada’s life cycle.  However, many young children would not be informed.  Young children might  not understand the story.

The illustrations are done  beautifully in shades of gray and then red, when Cicada does emerge into his new stage of life.  Intriguing and clever.

Shaun Tan is a NYT best selling author who lives in Australia. Other books by the author include:  “The Arrival,” ‘Tales from the Inner City,” and “The Singing Bones.”

Reviewed By Connie M. Smith, Breakwater School, Portland, Maine